Applying Sunscreen on Your Body? Make Sure You Avoid These Top Mistakes

People who are going to the beach to relax, have fun or get a tan would typically put on sunscreen to protect their skin from the damaging rays of the sun. Using sunscreen also prevents dark spots and lowers the risk of skin cancer.

Despite these benefits, however, not everyone knows how to use sunscreen correctly. Improperly applied sunscreen has far less protection and won’t shield you effectively from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Hence, it’s important to take note of these common mistakes when using sunscreen — and learn what you should do instead.

Applying Sunscreen with Potentially Toxic Ingredients

Common sunscreen ingredients could do more harm than good. Methylisothiazolinone (MI), a potent allergen, has been associated with allergic reactions. Oxybenzone, a synthetic oestrogen ingredient found in many sunscreens, upsets the hormone system.

Instead of buying sunscreen with these ingredients, look for a sunscreen that’s less harmful and is suitable for your skin. The moisturising sunscreen of Bali Body, for instance, consists of Shea Butter and Sweet Almond Oil to keep the skin smooth and make it less likely to develop irritation than other sunscreens.

Using a Sunscreen with High SPF

The old saying ‘the more, the better’ does not apply in sunscreen use. High SPF sunscreens, in fact, mislead individuals into thinking that they offer more protection from sun damage. High-SPF products are only slightly better at shielding you from UVB rays and could make you spend more time in the sun. Thus, it’s best to go with sunscreens with SPF values no greater than 50.

Not Reapplying the Sunscreen

A single coating of sunscreen won’t last an entire day. It gets absorbed into the skin and becomes ineffective over time, especially when you get out of the water. So, make sure to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours or after sweating or swimming.

When using sunscreen, make sure you choose the ones with less harmful ingredients, use a sunscreen with an SPF that’s not over 50, and reapply it every two hours or after swimming. While sunscreen protects your skin, you don’t want it to do all the heavy lifting. Make sunglasses, hats and clothing part of your sun protection plan.